Last night, I did something that was totally outside my comfort zone. The art department here at camp was expected to be part of the evening entertainment: All specialists had to do a short humorous skit in front of the entire camp, illustrating what happens in our daily classes. Most of us artists are introverts, uncomfortable in front of large groups. We are not typically public performers. And while many of us do have a good sense of humor, it is often expressed quietly.After much deliberation, we came up with a cute skit about the top ten things people like to do in the art department. We asked the campers for suggestions. I played the role of a camper who comes into the art room at any time of day or night, interrupting and asking for things. I interrupted frequently, asking for a variety of commonly requested art objects, including markers, paper and glue. I then launched into the more annoying and bizarre requests that we get; "Can you fix my shoe? Can you sew my hem?"
Yes, I was not at ease with this task. And yes, I did it anyway. And I felt good that I pushed myself to do what I don't typically do. I felt stretched. I grew a little. I certainly did not stay static. And I love the excitement that comes with risking something scary, that feeling of adrenaline coursing through my veins.
What wants to stretch in you? What step will you take today to scoot out of your comfort zone?
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It's awesome that you went outside your comfort zone! I remember in 9th grade when I first signed up for the school play... I was terrified!
ReplyDeleteHey Tori,
ReplyDeleteThanks for cheering me on! So, what happened with the 9th grade play? Was it as scary as you though it would be? What did you learn about yourself?
The rain is wonderful to clean all the toxins out of the air, an give the earth a nice bath.
ReplyDeleteThere's nothing better than the smell of the air after it has rained.
Hi Pat,
ReplyDeleteI also love the smell of the earth after the rain falls. Thanks for the reminder of what to be grateful for.
This post reminded me of my decision this year to sing in the chorus in a production of our community theatre. Hadn't done that since summer camp as a teenager, bout 40 years ago! At each rehearsal (there were about 50 of them) I felt something inside of me loosen up a little bit - and I was pretty tightly wound up. As if singing weren't enough of a leap outside my comfort zone, it turned out that I was expected to dance, something that's waaaay outside of my comfort zone. It was a great, stretching, healing experience.
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